Apricots “Subkhon pitted” (size 1)

Description

1. How it is grown and harvested: Uzbekistan is among the world’s largest producers of apricots, and apricot drying is a centuries-old tradition in the Fergana Valley, Samarkand and the foothill regions. Hot, dry summers with almost no rain during harvest allow the fruit to be dried naturally in the open air, and the large difference between day and night temperatures gives the fruit a high sugar content and a rich aroma. Subkhon (Subhoni) is one of the most celebrated apricot varieties of Uzbekistan, grown mainly in the Fergana Valley and the foothill regions where hot days, cool nights and mountain irrigation water create ideal conditions. The fruit is left on the tree until fully ripe, when it develops high natural sugar and a deep orange colour, and is then picked by hand. The apricots are halved or opened, the stones are removed, and the fruit is dried naturally in the sun until it reaches the right balance of firmness and softness.

2. Processing and packaging details: After drying, the apricots are cleaned, washed and inspected, and any pieces with stone fragments, blemishes or foreign matter are removed. The fruit is graded by size and colour into Size 1 (large, premium) and Size 4 (smaller, economical) calibres. Depending on the customer’s requirements, the colour can be natural or stabilised by standard sulphur treatment, which is clearly stated on the label. The apricots are packed in food-grade liners inside export cartons to keep them soft, clean and protected from moisture. Store dried apricots in a cool, dry place (ideally 5–15 °C, relative humidity below 65%), away from direct sunlight. Cold storage helps preserve colour and softness for longer. Under proper conditions the product keeps its quality for 12 months or more. Each lot can be supplied with export documentation, including a phytosanitary certificate and certificate of origin, on request.

3. Health benefits and nutrition: Dried apricots are one of the richest fruit sources of potassium and are also known for beta-carotene (provitamin A), which supports normal vision and skin health. They provide dietary fibre for digestion, iron, magnesium and natural fruit sugars for energy. Subkhon apricots are a nourishing, naturally sweet alternative to confectionery. Sulphured versions contain sulphites and are not suitable for people with sulphite sensitivity. Subkhon apricots are perfect as a table snack, in gift boxes and dried-fruit assortments, and in porridge, muesli, yoghurt, baking, desserts and compotes. They also pair wonderfully with meat and rice dishes and with cheese and nuts.

Typical values. Sun-dried, no added sugar or colourants. Contains sulphites.